Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States,
claiming hundreds of thousands of lives each year. During American
Heart Month, we renew our commitment to fighting cardiovascular disease
by increasing public awareness of this deadly disease and understanding
of how it can be prevented.

Today, millions of Americans live with some form of cardiovascular
disease, including congenital heart disease, coronary heart disease, and
high blood pressure. Individuals can reduce their chance of developing
these and other types of heart disease by exercising regularly,
maintaining healthy eating habits and weight, avoiding tobacco use, and
monitoring cholesterol and blood pressure levels. All Americans should
speak with their doctors about the dangers of this disease and get
regular preventive screenings.

My Administration continues to help raise awareness of heart
disease through initiatives such as "The Heart Truth" campaign,
sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. First Lady
Laura Bush serves as the National Ambassador of "The Heart Truth"
campaign and works with partner organizations as part of her Women's
Health and Wellness Initiative. The campaign informs women about the
dangers of this deadly illness and encourages them to make
cardiovascular health a priority. This year marks the fifth anniversary
of the campaign, which uses the red dress as a symbol to remind women to
protect their heart health and inspire them to take action. New data
shows that fewer women are dying from heart disease, and more women are
aware heart disease is the number one killer.

During American Heart Month, we honor the medical professionals,
researchers, and all those whose tireless efforts are making a positive
difference in the lives of those battling heart disease. By working
together, we can continue to help the American people live longer and
healthier lives.

In acknowledgement of the importance of the ongoing fight against
cardiovascular disease, the Congress, by Joint Resolution approved
December 30, 1963, as amended (77 Stat. 843; 36 U.S.C. 101), has
requested that the President issue an annual proclamation designating
February as "American Heart Month."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, do hereby proclaim February 2007 as American Heart Month,
and I invite all Americans to participate in National Wear Red Day on
February 2, 2007. I also invite the Governors of the States, the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, officials of other areas subject to the
jurisdiction of the United States, and the American people to join me in
recognizing and reaffirming our commitment to fighting cardiovascular
disease.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
first day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and
of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirty-first.